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Important Natural 23 Carat Ceylon Sapphire Diamond Necklace 1950s Provenance

$233,638
£173,928.30
€195,000
CA$320,025.65
A$355,938.38
CHF 185,859.96
MX$4,331,391.49
NOK 2,373,715.34
SEK 2,226,126.21
DKK 1,484,466.92
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About the Item

Important one-of-a-kind 23-carat Ceylon natural no-heat sapphire and diamond convertible necklace/brooch in platinum and White gold, Portuguese, circa 1957, crafted for an occasion graced by Queen Elizabeth II during her royal visit to Lisbon, accompanied by a custom-fitted case. This exceptional and singular vintage jewel hails from the 1950s, an era of unrivaled elegance and exquisite craftsmanship. It boasts a transformative centerpiece crafted as a convertible necklace-brooch of unparalleled artistry. At its heart lies a resplendent round-shape natural Ceylon sapphire, a dazzling gem of remarkable rarity, weighing a remarkable 23.01 carats. The centerpiece is an exquisite focal point, a dazzling spectacle adorned with a stylized floral cluster delicately adorned with round brilliant-cut and marquise brilliant-cut diamonds, further accentuated by smaller oval-shape sapphires. This captivating cluster extends gracefully on either side, adorned with delicate swags of alternating marquise brilliant-cut diamonds and oval-shape sapphires, culminating in a sublime sapphire and diamond cluster terminal, which transitions seamlessly into an articulated link necklace meticulously set with diamonds throughout. The versatility of this Mid-Century jewel is underscored by its capability to transform into a striking brooch, secured with a click-shut and safety catch fitting, further augmented by a hinged pin brooch fitting. The exceptional 23-carat Ceylon sapphire stands as a testament to its rarity. Natural, non-heated sapphires of this caliber, especially surpassing 5 carats, are extraordinarily rare and highly sought-after, adding unparalleled allure and value to this piece. This remarkable jewel's historical provenance is steeped in significance, commissioned to Casa Branca de Brito jewelers by a distinguished Portuguese Lady to grace an unforgettable dinner gala with Queen Elizabeth II during her momentous royal visit to Portugal in February 1957. The Lady's identity remains confidential, adding an air of mystique to this illustrious piece. A timeless testament to sophistication and peerless artistry, this extraordinary treasure transcends time, embodying enduring elegance and unparalleled craftsmanship. An heirloom of unparalleled significance and beauty. Sapphire: Circular mixed-cut; 23.01 carats (known unmounted weight); accompanied by GCS report (“certificate”) #79216-91 stating it weighs 23.01 carats, originated from Sri Lanka (Ceylon), natural with no indications of heating; the report contains the note “Non-heated sapphires are scarce” – and this scarcity is even more prominent is stones above 5 carats. Provenance: This jewel was commissioned to Casa Branca de Brito jewelers to be worn by a Portuguese Lady at a dinner gala with Queen Elizabeth II on her royal visit to Portugal, in February 1957. The Lady’s identity will remain confidential. Dimensions: 39cm (necklace); 5cm (brooch). Gross weight: 53.9g. This item is in good condition, with marks and scratches consistent with general age and wear. Antique, period and vintage pieces, both signed and unsigned, are being offered as worn. Unless otherwise stated, all weights and quality factors have been graded as mounting permitted and using classic gemology and standard gemological equipment and might slightly differ from the assessments provided by other gemologists. Assessments related to period of manufacture or geographic origin of gemstones are expert opinions and may differ from the assessments provided by other professionals. Colors in the pictures/videos might slightly differ from the colors in real life. When certificated stones are being offered, the certificate or report will be mentioned. For additional information or clarification, please get in touch and our in-house team of expert GIA Graduate Gemologists and Registered Appraisers/Valuers will be happy to help. Upon request, every item sold by Espadim 1985 will be accompanied by a complimentary valuation, which you can use for insurance, authenticity and reference and safekeeping purposes; this will contain a detailed description, technical information and photographic records of the item. GENERAL NOTES: We are members of the following associations: Watch Trader Association (WTA), Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Alumni, Associação dos Peritos Avaliadores Oficiais de Ourivesaria e Joalharia (APAOINCM), Associação Portuguesa dos Antiquários (APA) and International Federation of Art and Antique Dealer Associations (CINOA).
  • Creator:
    Branca de Brito
  • Metal:
  • Stone:
  • Stone Cut:
  • Weight:
    53.9 g
  • Dimensions:
    Width: 1.97 in (50 mm)Length: 15.36 in (390 mm)
  • Style:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1957
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Lisbon, PT
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 238/19E1stDibs: LU2150211283922

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